Bringing a dog from the Netherlands to the UK: rules 2026
Taking a dog from the Netherlands to the UK follows the same post-Brexit process as other EU countries. The Netherlands is on the UK's approved list, so no titer test is needed. The tapeworm treatment is the key extra step for dogs.
Destination requirements
- Microchip — before the rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination — wait ≥21 days after the first vaccination. (Minimum vaccination age 12 weeks — verify on gov.uk.)
- Titer test — ONLY if travelling from a country that is NOT in the EU AND NOT “listed”. Blood ≥30 days after vaccination, ≥0.5 IU/ml; then wait 3 months from the blood-draw date to travel.
- Document (depends on origin): from the EU — EU pet passport, a GB Animal Health Certificate (AHC), or a Great Britain pet health certificate. From a “listed” country (USA, Canada, Australia, Japan) — usually a Great Britain pet health certificate. From “not listed” — GB pet health certificate + titer test.
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) — by a vet each entry; window not less than 24 h and not more than 120 h (1–5 days) before arrival; praziquantel. Not required from Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta, Norway. Cats don’t need it.
- Breeds — banned types cannot be imported without a Certificate of Exemption: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, XL Bully (verify the current list on gov.uk).
- Quarantine — up to 4 months if the rules are not met.
- Cabin / cargo — pets must travel by an approved route, by air usually as manifested cargo; cabin into GB is generally not allowed (except special conditions for assistance dogs).
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Bring your pet to Great Britain ↗
- GOV.UK — Which pet travel document ↗
- GOV.UK — Rabies blood tests ↗
- GOV.UK — Tapeworm treatment for dogs ↗
- ✓ ISO 11784/11785 microchipping before rabies vaccine timeline
- ✓ Rabies titer blood test (RNATT) & mandatory 90-day waiting period
- ✓ Airport transit zone regulations, international vet certificates & EU pet passport
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FAQ
Do I need a titer test to bring a dog from the Netherlands to the UK?
No. EU countries including the Netherlands are on the UK's approved list — no titer test required.
What is the tapeworm treatment requirement from the Netherlands?
Dogs must receive a Praziquantel tapeworm treatment 1–5 days before entry into the UK, administered and certified by a vet, documented in the AHC.
Who issues the AHC for dogs from the Netherlands?
A Dutch Official Veterinarian (Officiële Dierenarts) issues the AHC. Valid for 10 days to entry into Great Britain.
Is there quarantine in the UK for dogs from the Netherlands?
No quarantine for compliant pets.